A Discourse on the Method (Oxford World's Classics) - Softcover

Descartes, René; Maclean, Ian

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0192825143 ISBN 13: 9780192825148

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2006

Synopsis

Descartes' Discourse marks a watershed in European thought; in it, the author sets out in brief his radical new philosophy, which begins with a proof of the existence of the self (the famous "cogito ergo sum"). Next he deduces from it the existence and nature of God, and ends by offering a radical new account of the physical world and of human and animal nature. Written in everyday language and meant to be read by common people of the day, it swept away all previous philosophical traditions.
This new translation is an ideal introduction to Descartes for the general reader. It is accompanied by a substantial introductory essay from Renaissance scholar Ian Maclean that is designed to provide in-depth historical and philosophical context. The essay draws on Descartes' correspondence to examine what brought him to write his great work, and the impact it had on his contemporaries. A detailed section of notes explain Descartes' philosophical terminology and ideas, as well as historical references and allusions. Any reader can feel comfortable diving in to this classic work of Renaissance philosophical thought.

About this title

About the Author:

Ian Maclean is a Professor of Renaissance Studies, University of Oxford.

Review:

...what sets this edition apart is its substantial introduction...its copious explanatory notes...The translation is clean and clear. Overall the work is to be recommended. Roger Ariew, Modern Languages Review, vol 102, part 1 'The care and accuracy of Ian Maclean's new translation are immediately apparentThis edition is remarkable for the ample introductory material which will be of great use to beginners and specialists alike[it] displays impeccable erudition and exemplary clarity.' s The challenge for any translator, as Maclean acknowledges, is to make it accessible to a new generation of readers, without anachronism if possible. This objective is achieved admirably in this edition by informed and confident choices in English...and the addition of explanatory notes when necessary. French Studies

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 0192825143
• ISBN 13: 9780192825148
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160